Former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has stated he would accept arrest if the ICC issues a warrant regarding his drug war. While in Hong Kong, he justified his actions as necessary for national peace. The current Philippine government is ready to cooperate with the law if needed, despite no official notice from Interpol yet.
Former President of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte, has openly stated that he would accept arrest should the International Criminal Court (ICC) issue a warrant related to his controversial drug war which resulted in numerous fatalities. This comment was made during his attendance at a campaign rally in Hong Kong, where he was promoting support for his senatorial candidates ahead of the Philippines’ midterm elections. Duterte emphasized the reasons behind his actions, indicating they were for the benefit of the nation and its people, not for himself.
Duterte’s administration was marked by a vigorous anti-narcotics campaign that characterized his rise to power in 2016. The current Philippine administration, under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has noted that there has been no formal communication from Interpol regarding an arrest warrant; however, law enforcement is prepared to act should it be necessary. Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro affirmed that the enforcement of any warrant would conform to legal protocols.
While attending the rally, Duterte addressed the potential warrant, expressing, “If this is truly my fate in life, it’s okay, I will accept it. They can arrest me, imprison me.” He criticized his detractors by questioning the legitimacy of claims against him, referring to his intentions to promote peace and safety for the Filipino public. Furthermore, the Philippine presidential office made it clear that they believe Duterte has not sought to evade legal repercussions by being in Hong Kong.
Duterte had previously dismissed fears regarding the ICC’s investigation into alleged extrajudicial killings, urging them to expedite their inquiries. Additionally, he withdrew the Philippines from the ICC in 2019 amidst growing scrutiny over his administration’s actions. Recent developments suggest that the Philippines may be open to cooperating with the ICC concerning specific aspects of the investigation, indicating a potential shift in their approach to this contentious issue.
In summary, former President Rodrigo Duterte’s acknowledgment of a potential arrest by the International Criminal Court reflects his ongoing commitment to the controversial policies of his administration regarding the war on drugs. While the current Philippine government has not received formal notice from Interpol, it remains prepared to act based on legal obligations. Duterte’s remarks during the rally reveal his conviction regarding the motivations behind his policies and signal a complex diplomatic dynamic as the government considers cooperation with the ICC.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
